The “did you knows” of Michigan

When it comes to Michigan, your first thoughts probably go to the Great Lakes. However, like every state, Michigan has its facts and symbols exclusive to the area. Just in case you’re ever stuck on trivia night, here are a few facts about the state.

  • The Indian words “Michi-gama” are translated into large lake; these words are what inspired the name Michigan
  • Michigan has been referred to by many other names; the most common one is the “Great Lake State,” but others vary from “Water Winter Wonderland” to “Wolverine State.”
  • Michigan’s catchphrase is “if you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you.”
  • Michigan was the 26th state to become a part of the Union (1837).
  • The state’s capital is Lansing, but the biggest city is Detroit.
  • Everywhere in Michigan is 85 miles away from at least one of the Great Lakes.
  • Michigan touches 4 of the cumulative 5 Great Lakes and is the only state to do so.
  • 40 of the state’s counties feature at least part of one of the Great Lakes; that’s just about half of Michigan’s total 83 counties.